Rugby tournament in memory of Harrison Ledsham

Natalie Walker

Friends of a boy who died of cancer will mark the first-year anniversary of his death with a charity rugby tournament.

The Harrison Ledsham Memorial will take place at Blackbrook Rugby Club, in St Helens, on May 15, as a special tribute to the 12-year-old from Haydock.

Harrison pictured with his parents Paul and Karen shortly after having his leg amputated

The event is being organised by Harrison’s best friend, Mackenzie Maddison, with support from his mum Beverley.

All money raised will go towards Bone Cancer Research Trust.

Beverley, of Haydock, said: “To remember Harrison we wanted to raise funds for bone cancer, as there is not as much publicity and funding for it due to it being quite rare.

“We wanted to bring the community together to remember and celebrate Harrison’s life. All his school friends are coming, as well as his team mates from Blackbrook Rugby Club, where he played in the under 11s team, before he was diagnosed.

“The best way to pay tribute to Harrison would be a memorial rugby tournament, with a one-minute silence beforehand.

“This means a lot to Mackenzie. He instigated the event as he didn’t want the day of Harrison’s death to go without remembering him. It also means a lot to Harrison’s parents, Paul and Karen, knowing that the community are coming together to remember him.

“Everyone who knew Harrison loved him. He had such a positive impact on everyone he met. I am hoping lots of people will come along on the day to remember Harrison.

“Rather than being a day of sadness we want it to be a celebration of his life.”

The memorial day is from 10am until 2pm. Admission is free and also includes bouncy castles, a raffle and stalls.